XTHE 

LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

A     PRACTICAL     WORK 

FOR 
LADIES'  AID   SOCIETIES 


BY 

R.  E.  SMITH 

y 


NEW     YORK:     EATON     &     MAINS 
CINCINNATI:  JENNINGS  &  GRAHAM 


Copyright,  1911   by 
EATON  &  MAINS 


DEDICATED  TO 

THE   LOYAL  LADIES 

WHO   ARE    DEVOTED   TO 

THE    SPIRITUAL, 

SOCIAL,    AND   FINANCIAL 

WELFARE 

OF 
THE   CHURCH 


CONTENTS 

CHAPTER  PAGE 

I.  CONSTITUTION   AND   BY-LAWS 9 

II.  ORDER  OF  BUSINESS 12 

III.  RULES  OF  ORDER 13 

IV.  APPBOPBIATE  SCRIPTURE  LESSONS 19 

V.  APPROPRIATE  PRAYERS 20 

VI.  THE  LADIES'  AID  AND  THE  PASTOB 25 

VII.  RECEPTIONS 28 

VIII.  DINNERS,  SUPPERS,  AND  LUNCHEONS 30 

IX.  ENTERTAINMENTS    AND    OTHER    MONEY-MAKING 

PLANS 42 

X.  SOCIAL  IDEAS 58 

XI.  GENERAL   HINTS 68 

XII.  OFFICIAL  RELATION  OF  THE  LADIES'  AID  TO  THE 

CHUBCH.  .  71 


FOREWORD 

Many  churches  would  languish  and  many  more 
would  die  if  it  were  not  for  the  consecrated  en- 
deavors of  earnest  women.  From  the  day  when 
Paul  wrote,  "Help  those  women  which  labored 
with  me  in  the  gospel,"  until  the  present  day,  the 
Church  of  Christ  has  been  under  an  increasing 
debt  of  obligation  to  the  women.  They  have 
prayed  fervently,  planned  wisely,  and  toiled  faith- 
fully, in  order  that  the  militant  Church  might 
be  a  conquering  force  in  the  world. 

The  express  purpose  of  this  little  book  is1  to 
help  those  women  who  are  bearing  the  burdens 
of  the  Church.  The  aim  of  the  work  is  practical 
throughout.  The  following  pages  tell  how  to  or- 
ganize and  conduct  a  Ladies'  Aid  successfully. 
No  experiments  are  suggested,  but  only  such 
methods  and  plans  as  have  proved  successful  in 
actual  Church  work.  All  questionable  plans1  for 
raising  money  have  been  scrupulously  avoided. 
The  supreme  work  of  the  Church  is  the  spiritual 
development  of  the  character  of  the  individual. 
But  the  Church  must  provide  for  the  development 
of  the  individual  along  other  important  lines. 
Every  plan  suggested  in  this  work  may  be  con- 
summated in  such  a  manner  as  to  contribute  to  the 
social,  intellectual,  and  financial  development  of 
the  Church,  without  incurring  any  just  criticism. 
The  book  is  sent  upon  its  mission  with  the  hope 
that  it  will  prove  of  valuable  assistance  to  all 
ladies  who  are  identified  with  the  work  of  the 
Ladies'  Aid  Societies.  R.  E.  S. 

7 


CHAPTER  I 
CONSTITUTION  AND  BY-LAWS 

The  following  Constitution  and  By-laws  may 
be  enlarged  or  modified  to  suit  each  local  Society. 
It  should  then  be  adopted  by  vote  of  the  Society. 

ARTICLE  I.    Name. 

The  name  of  this  Society  shall  be,  "The  Ladies' 
Aid  Society  of  the Church." 

ARTICLE  II.     Object 

The  object  of  this  Society  shall  be  the  promo- 
tion of  the  spiritual,  social  and  financial  interests 
of  the  church. 

ARTICLE  III.    Membership 

All  ladies  who  are  interested  in  the  object  of 
the  Society,  and  are  willing  to  cooperate  in  carry- 
ing out  its  plans,  are  eligible  to  membership,  and 
shall  become  members  when  accepted  by  the  Mem- 
bership Committee.  It  is  understood  that  all  who 
join  the  Society  will,  when  called  upon,  serve  on 
committees. 

ARTICLE  IV.     Officers 

The  officers  of  this  Society  shall  be  a  president, 
two  vice-presidents,  secretary,  and  treasurer.  The 
officers  shall  be  elected  by  ballot,  by  a  majority 
vote,  and  shall  hold  their  offices1  for  twelve 
months,  or  until  their  successors  are  elected. 

9 


10  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

ARTICLE  V.    Amendments 

This  Constitution  may  be  amended  as  follows: 
A  notice  of  proposed  amendment  must  be  sub- 
mitted in  writing  one  month  previous  to  the  meet- 
ing at  which  the  amendment  is  to  be  considered. 
A  two-thirds  vote  of  the  members  present  shall 
be  necessary  for  its  adoption. 

BY-LAWS 

ARTICLE  I.    Meetings 

This  Society  shall  hold  a  regular  monthly  meet- 
ing on  the Tuesday  afternoon  of  each 

month  at  two-thirty  o'clock.  Special  meetings 
may  be  ordered  by  the  Society  or  may  be  called 
by  the  Executive  Committee. 

ARTICLE  II.     Committees 

This  Society  shall  have  two  standing  commit- 
tees as  follows: 

Executive  Committee.  This  committee  shall  be 
composed  of  the  officers  of  the  Society.  The 
duties  of  this  committee  shall  be  to  execute  the 
expressed  wishes  of  the  Society,  to  recommend 
various  plans,  etc.,  to  the  Society,  and  to  call 
special  meetings  when  they  deem  it  necessary. 

Membership  Committee.  It  shall  be  the  duty 
of  this  committee  to  secure  and  admit  new  mem- 
bers. 

Special  Committees  for  any  desired  purpose 
may  be  appointed  at  any  meeting  of  the  Society. 
Such  committees  must  first  be  recommended  to 
the  Society  by  the  Executive  Committee. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  11 

ARTICLE  III.    Duties  of  Officers 

The  president  shall  preside  at  the  meetings  of 
the  Society.  The  vice-presidents  shall  preside  in 
the  absence  of  the  president.  The  secretary  shall 
keep  an  accurate  record  of  all  the  proceedings1  of 
the  Society.  The  treasurer  shall  hold  in  trust  all 
funds  of  the  Society  and  shall  only  pay  such  bills 
as  the  Society  shall  vote  to  pay. 

ARTICLE  IV.     Quorum 

At  any  business  meeting -  members  shall 

constitute  a  quorum  for  the  transaction  of  busi- 
ness. 

ARTICLE  V.    Annual  Meeting 

The  annual  meeting  for  the  election  of  officers 

shall  be  held  on  the Tuesday  in  the  month 

of  -  — .  At  this  meeting  all  officers  and  com- 
mittees shall  give  a  full  written  report  of  the 
work  of  the  year.  After  the  election  of  officers 
the  secretary  shall  report  in  writing  to  the  Quar- 
terly Conference  of  the  church  the  name  of  the 
president-elect  for  their  approval. 

ARTICLE  VI.    Amendments 

These  By-Laws  may  be  amended  in  the  manner 
prescribed  in  Article  V  of  the  Constitution. 


CHAPTER  II 
ORDER  OF  BUSINESS 

The  order  of  business  may  be  determined  by 
each  local  Society.  The  following  order,  however, 
will  prove  entirely  satisfactory  in  most  Societies. 

I.  Call  to  Order. 
II.  Singing. 

III.  Scripture  Reading  (see  Chapter  IV). 

IV.  Prayer  (see  Chapter  V). 

V.  Reading  of  the  Minutes  of  the  Last  Meet- 
ing, and  Their  Approval. 

VI.  Reports    from    Regular   or    Special    Com- 
mittees. 

VII.  Unfinished  Business. 
VIII.  New  Business. 
IX.  Benediction,  repeated  by  all. 

Dear  Lori,  as  we  part,  let  the  light  of 
thy  countenance  shine  upon  us,  grant  us 
thy  peace,  and  lead  us  in  the  way  ever- 
lasting. For  thy  name's  sake.  Amen. 

X.  Adjournment. 


12 


CHAPTER  III 
RULES  OF  ORDER 

The  following  digest  of  parliamentary  law  is  not 
complete  by  any  means.  Only  such  rules  are  sug- 
gested as  may  be  required  by  the  average  Ladies' 
Aid.  The  rules  are  purposely  stated  in  the  plain- 
est language  in  order  that  they  may  be  clearly 
understood  by  all.  It  would  be  well  for  every 
Ladies'  Aid  to  adopt  these  standard  Rules  of 
Order  to  govern  their  meetings.  The  adoption  of 
these  rules  will  do  much  to  prevent  confusion,  dis- 
cord, and  misunderstandings. 

I.    BRINGING  BUSINESS  BEFORE  THE  MEETING 

There  are  two  ways  in  which  business  should  be 
brought  before  the  meeting.  First,  by  a  motion 
of  one  of  the  members.  Second,  by  the  presenta- 
tion of  a  written  communication. 

II.    A  MOTION  TO  ADJOURN 

A  motion  to  adjourn  cannot  be  debated,  cannot 
be  amended,  and  cannot  be  reconsidered. 

III.     AN  AMENDMENT  TO  A  MOTION 

An  amendment  to  a  motion  may  take  any  of  the 
following  forms:  (1)  Something  may  be  added. 
(2)  Words,  sentences,  or  paragraphs  may  be 
stricken  out.  (3)  Some  words  may  be  stricken 

13 


14  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

out  and  others  inserted.  (4)  A  different  motion 
on  the  same  subject  may  be  substituted.  (5) 
The  question  may  be  divided  into  two  or  more 
questions  as  specified  by  the  mover,  in  order  to 
secure  a  separate  vote  on  any  particular  point  or 
points. 

IV.    AN  AMENDMENT  OF  AN  AMENDMENT 

An  amendment  of  an  amendment  cannot  be 
amended. 

V.    AMENDING  RULES  OP  ORDER 

Rules  of  order  can  be  amended  at  any  regular 
meeting  of  the  Society  by  a  two-thirds  vote,  pro- 
vided the  proposed  amendment  was  submitted  in 
writing  at  the  previous  regular  meeting. 

VI.     MOTIONS  WHICH  CANNOT  BE  AMENDED 

The  following  motions  cannot  be  amended, 
namely,  to  adjourn,  for  the  orders  of  the  day, 
all  incidental  questions,  to  lay  on  the  table,  for 
the  previous  question,  an  amendment  of  an 
amendment,  to  postpone  indefinitely,  to  recon- 
sider. 

VII.    APPEALS 

Appeals  are  debatable,  cannot  be  amended,  can 
be  reconsidered,  and  are  in  order  when  another 
has  the  floor.  An  appeal,  however,  relating  to  in- 
decorum, is  undebatable. 

VIII.    A  CALL  TO  ORDER 

A  call  to  order  cannot  be  debated  or  amended, 
can  be  reconsidered,  does  not  require  to  be  sec- 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  15 

ended,   and  is  in   order  when  another  has  the 
floor. 

IX.  A  MOTION  TO  CLOSE  THE  DEBATE 

A  motion  to  close  the  debate  cannot  be  debated, 
amended,  or  reconsidered,  requires  a  two-thirds 
vote,  and  is  not  in  order  when  another  has  the 
floor. 

X.  A  MOTION  TO  COMMIT  OR  REFER 

A  motion  to  commit  or  refer  is  debatable,  can 
be  amended  or  reconsidered,  and  is  not  in  order 
when  another  has  the  floor. 

XI.    A  MOTION  TO  EXTEND  LIMITS  OP  A  DEBATE 

A  motion  to  extend  the  limits  of  a  debate  can- 
not be  debated,  can  be  amended  or  reconsidered, 
requires  a  two-thirds  vote,  and  is  not  in  order 
when,  another  has  the  floor. 

XII.  A  MOTION  TO  LAY  ON  THE  TABLE 

A  motion  to  lay  on  the  table  cannot  be  debated, 
cannot  be  amended,  is  not  in  order  when  another 
has  the  floor,  and  an  affirmative  vote  on  this  ques- 
tion cannot  be  reconsidered. 

XIII.  A  MOTION  TO  LIMIT  THE  DEBATE 

A  motion  to  limit  the  debate  cannot  be  debated, 
can  be  amended  or  reconsidered,  requires  a  two- 
thirds  vote,  and  is  not  in  order  when  another  has 
the  floor. 

XIV.    A  MOTION  FOR  THE  ORDERS  OF  THE  DAY 

A  motion  for  the  orders  of  the  day  cannot  be 
debated,  cannot  be  amended,  can  be  reconsidered, 


16  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

does  not  require  to  be  seconded,  and  is  in  order 
when  another  has  the  floor. 

XV.    A  MOTION  TO  POSTPONE  INDEFINITELY 

A  motion  to  postpone  indefinitely  can  be  de- 
bated, cannot  be  amended,  can  be  reconsidered, 
and  is  not  in  order  when  another  has  the  floor. 

XVI.      A  MOTION  FOR  THE  PREVIOUS  QUESTION 

A  motion  for  the  previous  question  cannot  be 
debated,  cannot  be  amended,  can  be  reconsidered, 
requires  a  two-thirds  vote,  and  is  not  in  order 
when  another  has  the  floor.  If  the  previous  ques- 
tion is  adopted,  all  debate  must  cease  and  the  So- 
ciety votes  on  the  pending  question  only,  except 
where  the  pending  motion  is  an  amendment  or  a 
motion  to  commit,  when  it  also  applies  to  the 
question  to  be  amended  or  committed. 

XVII.    BEADING  PAPERS 

When  papers  are  placed  before  the  Society, 
every  member  has  a  right  to  have  them  read  once 
before  being  compelled  to  vote  on  them. 

XVIII.    A  MOTION  TO  RECONSIDER  A  DEBATABLE 
QUESTION  , 

A  motion  to  reconsider  a  debatable  question 
can  be  debated,  cannot  be  amended  or  reconsid- 
ered, is  in  order  when  another  has  the  floor,  but 
cannot  interrupt  business  then  before  the  Society, 
must  be  made  on  the  day,  or  the  day  after,  the 
original  vote  was  taken,  and  by  one  who  voted 
with  the  majority. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  17 

XIX.    A  MOTION  TO  RECONSIDER  AN  UNDEBATABLE 

QUESTION 

A  motion  to  reconsider  an  undebatable  ques- 
tion cannot  be  debated.  In  other  particulars  the 
rules  are  the  same  as  under  XVIII. 

XX.  A  MOTION  TO  RESCIND 

A  motion  to  rescind  can  be  debated,  amended, 
or  reconsidered,  and  is  not  in  order  when  another 
has  the  floor. 

XXI.  A  SUBSTITUTE  MOTION 

(Same  as  an  Amendment  to  a  Motion.  See  III.) 

XXII.    A  MOTION  TO  SUSPEND  THE  RULES 

A  motion  to  suspend  the  rules1  cannot  be  de- 
bated, amended,  or  reconsidered,  requires  a  two- 
thirds  vote,  and  is  not  in  order  when  another  has 
the  floor. 

XXIII.    A  MOTION  TO  TAKE  FROM  THE  TABLE 

A  motion  to  take  from  the  table  cannot  be  de- 
bated or  amended,  an  affirmative  vote  on  this 
motion  cannot  be  reconsidered,  and  it  is  not  in 
order  when  another  has  the  floor. 

XXIV.    TAKING  A  QUESTION  OUT  OP  ITS  PROPER 
ORDER 

A  motion  to  take  up  a  question  out  of  its 
proper  order  cannot  be  debated  or  amended,  can 
be  reconsidered,  requires  a  two-thirds  vote,  and  is 
not  in  order  when  another  has  the  floor. 


18  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

XXV.    A  MOTION  TO  WITHDRAW  A  MOTION 

A  motion  to  withdraw  a  motion  cannot  be  de- 
bated or  amended,  can  be  reconsidered,  and  is  not 
in  order  when  another  has  the  floor. 

NOTES  ON  THE  ABOVE  RULES 

In  order  to  adopt  any  of  the  above  motions  a 
majority  vote  is  necessary  except  where  a  two- 
thirds  vote  is  indicated. 

All  the  above  motions  are  required  to  be  sec- 
onded except  VIII  and  XIV. 

None  of  the  above  motions  open  the  main  ques- 
tion to  debate  except  X,  XV,  XVIII,  and  XX. 


The  Vine  and  the  Branches.    John  15,  1-11. 
The  Beautiful  Story  of  Euth.    Euth  1,  8-18. 

The  Beatitudes.    Matt  5,  1-12. 

• 

Parable  of  the  Virgins.    Matt.  25,  1-13. 

God's  Glory  in  His  Works.    Psa.  19. 

Our  Great  Pattern.    Phil.  2,  1-15. 

The  Story  of  a  Faithful  Woman.    Acts  9,  36-43. 

Parable  of  the  Pounds.    Luke  19,  12-26. 

The  Shepherd  Psalm.    Psa.  23. 

The  Word  Made  Flesh.    John  1,  1-17. 

Our  Heavenly  Home.    Eev.  21,  1-7,  22-27. 

The  Last  Judgment.    Matt.  25,  3140. 


19 


CHAPTER  V 
APPROPRIATE  PRAYERS 

OUR  Father,  we  most  reverently  and  earnestly 
seek  thy  guidance  in  all  our  undertakings.  May 
thy  presence  sweeten  and  hallow  this  hour.  May 
we  not  be  influenced  by  motives  of  earthly  ease 
or  pleasure,  but  by  a  deep,  heartfelt  desire  to 
please  thee  in  all  things.  Bless  all  in  authority 
in  our  beteved  church.  Guide  our  leaders  in  this 
Society,  and  grant  unto  them  heavenly  wisdom 
as  they  lead  us  in  our  efforts  to  do  good.  Help 
each  one  of  us  to  be  patient  and  kind,  and  save 
us  from  all  hurtful  and  hasty  speech.  May  we 
be  really  helpful  to  all  within  the  church,  but 
especially  so  to  the  young  and  the  aged.  May  the 
spirit  of  charity  and  brotherliness  pervade  all 
our  people,  and  may  we  be  one  united  family  in 
the  common  faith  of  our  blessed  Lord.  Do  thou 
help  us  in  the  work  we  do  this  day,  and  may  it 
assist  in  the  extension  of  thy  kingdom.  May  we 
feel  that  it  is  an  honor,  and  not  a  hard  task,  to  put 
forth  our  best  efforts  in  doing  cheerfully  what 
our  hands  find  to  do.  This  we  ask  in  our  Master's 
name.  Amen. 

Blessed  Saviour,  we  gratefully  acknowledge 
our  indebtedness  to  thee.  Thou  hast  graciously 
assisted  us  in  the  past  as  we  have  endeavored  to 
advance  the  interests  of  the  church  of  the  living 
God.  Help  us,  we  beseech  thee,  to  be  one  in 
Christian  love  and  fellowship,  and  grant  that  our 
20 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  21 

efforts  may  be  crowned  with  success.  We  con- 
secrate our  lives  to  thee  and  we  pledge  the  best 
service  we  can  render  to  our  fellow  men.  May 
we  be  willing  at  all  times  to  sacrifice  our  own 
ease  and  preferments1  in  order  that  thy  work  may 
prosper  in  our  hands.  Impress  us  with  a  sense 
of  thy  goodness  and  thy  presence.  Impart  unto 
us  of  thy  wisdom  and  strength,  that  we  may  not 
fail  of  doing  thy  righteous  will  in  anything  we 
have  undertaken.  Bless  us  in  the  special  work 
of  this  day,  guide  us  through  all  the  days  of  our 
earthly  pilgrimage,  and  bring  us  to  thyself  at  last 
in  the  better  land.  For  Christ's  sake.  Amen. 

Heavenly  Father,  we  desire  to  express  our  grati- 
tude to  thee  for  thy  loving-kindness  and  tender 
mercies.  Truly  thy  mercies  are  new  every  morn- 
ing and  fresh  every  evening.  In  prosecuting  the 
work  of  our  Society  we  believe  we  are  accomplish- 
ing a  labor  of  love  for  thee  and  thy  church.  As 
our  blessed  Lord  went  about  doing  good  to  the 
bodiesi  as  well  as  the  souls  of  men,  so  may  we 
imitate  his  example  and  follow  in  his  footsteps. 
Help  us  to  be  watchful  and  to  never  allow  an 
opportunity  to  pass  of  relieving  human  need. 
Help  us  to  love  people  as  truly  as  Christ  did  and 
to  express  our  love  in  Christlike  words  and  deeds. 
Bless  us  in  this  present  session  of  our  Society, 
strengthen  us  for  the  work  before  us,  and  may  all 
thsat  we  do  be  wholly  done  to  thy  honor  and 
glory.  We  ask  these  favors  in  Jesus'  name. 
Amen. 

Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  with  lov- 
ing hearts  we  reverently  acknowledge  thee  as  the 
giver  of  every  gift,  both  temporal  and  spiritual, 


22  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

which  we  freely  enjoy.  Surely  thy  goodness  and 
thy  mercy  hath  followed  us  all  the  days  of  our 
lives.  Truly  the  lines  have  fallen  unto  us  in  pleas- 
ant places,  and  we  have  a  goodly  heritage.  We 
plead  for  thy  special  blessing  to  rest  upon  this 
little  gathering  here  to-day.  We  greatly  need 
the  assistance  of  thy  grace,  and  wisdom  to  guide 
us  aright  in  all  our  efforts.  Sometimes  we  are 
tempted  to  become  discouraged  in  view  of  our 
small  numbers  and  the  greatness  of  the  work  to 
be  done.  Help  us  to  be  truly  heroic  and  to  be  of 
good  cheer,  because  thou  hast  promised  to  be  with 
us  and  to  give  us  strength  equal  to  our  tasks. 
May  we  shun  no  burden  or  evade  no  responsibility, 
but  may  we  toil  for  thee  and  thy  church  until 
we  enter  our  heavenly  rest.  Impart  unto  us  some 
spiritual  gift  this  hour  and  encourage  and 
strengthen  our  hands  and  our  hearts  for  coming 
service.  We  ask  in  the  name  of  our  common  Lord. 
Amen. 

O  Lord  and  Master  of  us  all,  we  thank  thee 
for  the  great  privilege  of  being  coworkers  with 
thee  in  the  great  work  of  uplifting  and  saving 
the  world.  Help  us  to  realize  the  vastness,  the 
importance,  the  true  grandeur  of  this  work.  May 
we  appreciate  more  thoroughly  than  ever  before 
the  true  dignity  of  the  task  committed  to  us. 
Thou  hast  been  so  good  to  us,  blessed  Master,  that 
we  would  express  our  love  to  thee  by  joyfully 
responding  to  the  calls  of  thy  church.  When  duty 
calls  may  we  each  reply,  "Here  am  I,  send  me." 
Send  us,  Lord,  upon  any  mission  and  by  thy  assist- 
ing grace  we  will  do  our  very  best.  May  we  scatter 
the  seeds  of  loving  deeds  along  life's  way,  ever 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  28 

remembering  that  the  tears  of  the  sower  and  the 
songs  of  the  reaper  shall  mingle  together  in  joy 
by  and  by.  Bless  us  in  the  work  we  may  plan  and 
undertake  this  afternoon.  And  whatever  we  do, 
may  we  do  it  as  unto  God  and  for  his  glory.  We 
ask  all  in  the  name  of  our  adorable  Lord.  Amen. 

Our  dear  Heavenly  Father,  we  assemble  once 
more  to  make  further  plans  for  the  benefit  of  our 
beloved  church.  In  this  work  we  have  an  increas- 
ing sense  of  our  need  of  help  from  above.  We 
bless  thee  because  thou  hast  helped  us  thus  far, 
and  because  thou  hast  unlimited  supplies  for  all 
our  needs.  Sometimes  we  become  oppressed  with 
a  multitude  of  home  cares  and  duties  to  society 
at  large,  but  amid  all  these  cares  grant  that  we 
may  not  forget  thee  and  the  claims  of  thy  church. 
We  pray  that  thou  wilt  touch  the  hearts  of  all  the 
ladies  in  our  church,  and  may  we  have  a  more 
cordial  and  larger  cooperation  of  all  our  sisters 
in  the  important  work  of  our  Society.  May  we 
all  unite  in  loving  and  persistent  efforts  to  in- 
crease the  power  and  influence  of  the  Church  of 
God  in  our  community.  Grant  us  thy  guidance  in 
the  special  needs  of  this  hour.  For  Christ's  sake. 
Amen. 

Father,  by  nature  we  are  sinful.  Wilt  thou 
not  pardon  every  sin?  We  become  weary  with 
life's  toils.  Wilt  thou  not  give  us  sweet,  spiritual 
rest  ?  We  often  become  uneasy  and  fretful.  Wilt 
thou  not  make  us  patient?  We  are  prone  to 
wander  from  thee.  Wilt  thou  not  guide  us  into 
paths  of  truth  and  righteousness?  We  too  fre- 
quently desire  to  have  our  own  way.  Wilt  thou 
not  help  us  to  sincerely  desire  that  thy  will  may 


24  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

be  done?  We  meet  many  temptations.  Wilt  thou 
not  give  us  daily  victory  ?  We  pass  through  some 
fiery  trials.  Wilt  thou  not  give  us  grace  to 
sweetly  endure?  We  sigh  for  the  "touch  of  a  van- 
ished hand,  and  the  sound  of  a  voice  that  is  still." 
Wilt  thou  not  comfort  us  ?  We  lose  courage  some- 
times amid  life's  stern  battles.  Wilt  thou  not 
make  uS  heroic?  We  become  dazed  by  life's  mys- 
teries. Wilt  thou  not  give  us  a  strong  faith  in 
thy  goodness?  We  long  sometimes  for  the  better 
land.  Wilt  thou  not  permit  us  to  enter  in  at  life's 
ending  and  see  the  King  in  his  beauty?  For  his 
sake.  Amen. 

"Our  Father  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy  will  be  done  in 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread;  and  forgive  us  our  trespasses  as  we 
forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us;  and  lead 
us  not  into  temptation,  but  deliver  us  from  evil ; 
for  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and 
the  glory,  forever.  Amen." 


CHAPTER  VI 
THE  LADIES'  AID  AND  THE  PASTOR 

The  ladies  can  be  a  positive  help  to  the  pastor 
without  adding  much  to  the  burdens  they  are 
already  bearing.  The  special  work  referred  to 
here  is  that  of  cooperating  with  the  pastor  in 
organizing  and  maintaining  a  Pastor's  Guild. 
This  can  be  done  as  a  part  of  the  regular  work 
of  the  Ladies'  Aid.  It  will  not  interfere  with  the 
other  work  of  the  Aid  but  will  greatly  assist  it. 
The  general  work  of  the  Guild  will  be  to  assist 
the  pastor  in  pastoral  supervision  and  visitation. 
Organizing  this  Guild  involves  the  following 
points : 

1.  Divide  the  town  or  city  into  a  number  of 
well-defined  districts. 

2.  Select  a  committee  of  three  or  more  ladies  in 
each  district  to  give  careful  attention  to  the  work 
of  the  Guild  in  that  district. 

3.  Elect  a  superintendent  and  assistant  super- 
intendent who  shall  cooperate  with  the  pastor  in 
the  supervision  of  the  Guild. 

4.  Let  the  pastor,  the  superintendents,  and  the 
committees  hold  a  joint  meeting  every  month  at 
the  close  of  the  regular  Ladies'  Aid  meeting. 

To  illustrate  just  how  to  organize  and  con- 
duct this  important  work  the  writer  submits 
the  following  outline  as  used  successfully  by 
himself: 

25 


26  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

THE  PASTOR'S  GUILD 

Conducted   under   the    auspices   of   the   Ladies'    Aid 

Society  of Church. 

,  Pastor. 

Superintendent  of  Guild. 

,  Asst.  Supt.  of  Guild. 

The  regular  meeting  of  the  Guild  shall  be  held  the 

Tuesday  of  each  month  at  the  close  of  the  Ladies' 

Aid  meeting. 

District  I 

Bounded  on  the  North  by-. 

Bounded  on  the  South  by 

Bounded  on  the  East  by 

Bounded  on  the  West  by 

Committee 

(NOTE. — Define  each  District  carefully  as  indicated 
above.) 

PRINTING 

A  folder  should  be  printed  containing  the  above 
plan  in  full.  The  following  message  should  also 
be  printed  on  the  same  folder.  Then  a  copy  of 
this  folder  should  be  placed  in  every  home  in  the 
parish. 

A  Message  to  All  of  Our  People 

The  Ladies'  Aid  of  our  Church  in  conjunction  with  the 
pastor  have  organized  this  Guild  for  the  express  pur- 
pose of  being  helpful  to  our  people  in  every  possible 
way.  The  pastor  is  anxious  to  keep  in  close,  living 
touch  with  every  family  and  every  individual.  He  is 
the  willing  servant  of  all  of  our  people  at  all  times.  In 
times  of  difficulty,  sorrow,  illness,  or  trouble  of  any  kind 
he  is  especially  anxious  to  render  helpful  and  loving 
service.  It  is  to  assist  our  pastor  in  this  great  work 
that  this  Guild  has  been  organized.  You  are  earnestly 
requested  to  cooperate  with  the  committee  in  your  dis- 
trict in  promoting  the  interests  of  our  church.  Kindly 
report  to  the  committee  any  families  moving  into  or  out 
of  your  district,  and  also  any  cases  of  illness.  The  pas- 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  27 

tor's  ideal  for  our  church- is  to  make  it  an  enterprising, 
social,  helpful,  progressive,  spiritual  church.  Each  one 
can  do  his  or  her  part  in  accomplishing  this  desired 
result.  Will  you  not  do  your  part?  If  you  fail  to  do 
so,  the  church  and  the  kingdom  of  Christ  will  suffer. 

SUGGESTIONS  TO  COMMITTEES 

1.  If  any  new  families  move  into  your  district,  please 
call  upon  them  at  once.     If  they  are  Methodists  or  if 
they  have  no  church  home,  give  them  a  cordial  invita- 
tion to  our  Church  and   Sunday  school.     Then  report 
immediately  to  the  pastor.     Then  introduce  them  to  as 
many  of  our  people  as  possible,  and  get  our  ladies  to 
call  on  them. 

2.  If  any  member  of  any  of  our  families  in  your  dis- 
trict is  ill,  please  notify  the  pastor,  and  call  upon  the 
sick  person  yourselves. 

3.  If  any  of  our  families  move  out  of  your  district, 
please  ascertain  where  they  have  gone  and  notify  the 
pastor.     If  they  move  into  some  other  district,  notify 
the  chairman  of  the  committee  in  that  district. 

4.  Make  a  special  effort  to  get  the  ladies  in  your  dis- 
trict interested  in  the  work  of  the  Ladies'  Aid  and  the 
Missionary  Societies  of  our  Church. 

5.  Bring  to  the  immediate  attention  of  the  pastor  at 
any  time  any  matter  involving  the  welfare  of  our  Church 
in  any  way. 

(NOTE. — The  above  plan'  is  thoroughly  practical  and 
works  admirably.  The  Ladies'  Aid  will  greatly  cheer 
the  pastor,  and  will  make  the  church  a  much  more 
effective  organization  by  putting  this  plan  into  opera- 
tion.) 


CHAPTER  VII 
RECEPTIONS 

When  a  change  of  pastors  takes  place,  or  when 
the  pastor  is  returned  for  another  year,  it  is  very 
appropriate  for  the  Ladies'  Aid  to  give  a  recep- 
tion. It  is  because  the  ladies  usually  take  charge 
of  this  important  function  that  we  venture  some 
suggestions  concerning  it. 

The  ladies  should  meet  and  make  very  careful 
plans.  Five  committees  should  be  appointed. 
These  committees  with  their  respective  duties  are 
as  follows : 

1.  A  committee  of  one  to  see  the  pastor  and  to 
adjust  with  him  a  satisfactory  date  for  the  recep- 
tion.   The  pastor  should  be  informed  at  this  time 
that  a  committee  would  call  for  him  and  his  family 
to  escort  them  to  the  church  or  to  any  other  place 
which  might  be  selected  for  the  reception. 

2.  A  Committee  on  Decorations.    This  commit- 
tee should  do  all  in  their  power  to  give  the  room 
or  rooms  a  homelike  appearance.    If  held  in  the 
church,  rugs,  easy  chairs,  tables,  pictures,  etc., 
should  be  borrowed  for  the  occasion.     Bunting, 
flags,  flowers,  etc.,  should  be  employed  in  an  artis- 
tic manner.    The  rooms  should  be  made  as  cheer- 
ful and  attractive  as  possible. 

3.  A  Committee  on  Program.    First  of  all,  this 
committee  should  take  steps  to  thoroughly  adver- 
tise the  reception.    Some  plan  should  be  adopted 
to  convey  an  invitation  to  every  family  in  the 

28 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  29 

parish.  Invitations  may  be  sent  by  mail,  or  the 
parish  may  be  divided  into  districts  and  have  one 
or  more  ladies  in  each  district  call  on  each  family. 
This  committee  should  arrange  for  a  brief,  spicy 
program.  Addresses  should  be  made  (not  exceed- 
ing five  minutes  each)  by  the  following  persons: 
A  member  of  the  official  board,  a  member  of  the 
Epworth  League,  a  member  of  the  Ladies'  Aid, 
and  ministers  representing  the  other  denomina- 
tions. The  addresses  should  be  interspersed  by  a 
few  short  musical  numbers. 

4.  A  Social  Committee.     This  committee  will 
escort  the  pastor  and  family  to  church,  will  receive 
the   guests,   introduce   them  to   the   pastor  and 
family,  and  do  everything  in  their  power  to  make 
it  pleasant  for  everybody.     It  is  suggested  that 
two  men  and  their  wives  constitute  this  commit- 
tee. 

5.  Committee  on  Refreshments.     This  commit- 
tee should  provide  dainty  refreshments  and  make 
arrangements  for  serving  the  same.    The  follow- 
ing would  be  appropriate  for  a  reception : 

Sherbet  and  cake,  or 
Ice  cream  and  cake,  or 
Fruit  punch  and  wafers,  or 
Coffee  and  cake. 
Nabiscoes  or  lady  fingers  may  be  substituted  for  cake. 


CHAPTER  VIII 
DINNERS,  SUPPERS,  AND  LUNCHEONS 

One  of  the  ends  sought  by  the  Ladies'  Aid  is 
to  raise  money  in  a  legitimate  manner  for  various 
objects  in  connection  with  the  church.  Inasmuch 
as  some  good  people  have  conscientious  objections 
to  having  dinners,  suppers,  entertainments,  etc., 
in  the  church  building,  it  is  better  to  have  them 
elsewhere  if  possible.  The  ladies  should  be  very 
careful  not  to  adopt  any  questionable  plan  for 
money-making  purposes.  Such  plans  injure  rather 
than  help  the  church  even  if  they  prove  a  financial 
success.  The  following  plans  have  been  tested 
and  have  proven  very  successful.  No  reasonable 
objection  can  be  offered  to  any  of  them  if  they 
are  properly  conducted.  In  planning  for  a  din- 
ner, supper,  or  luncheon  the  ladies  should  meet 
and  decide  several  things  as  follows : 

1.  Where  and  when  it  should  take  place. 

2.  The  various  kinds  and  the  amount  of  each 
kind  of  food  required. 

3.  The  appointment  of  the  following  commit- 
tees: Committee  to  solicit  the  food,  committee  to 
arrange  the  tables  and  provide  waiters,  committee 
to  take  charge  of  the  work  in  the  kitchen,  Social 
Committee  to  welcome  all  who  come. 

THANKSGIVING  DINNER 

Decorations:    An    appropriate   decoration    for 
this  dinner  would  be  the  generous  use  of  potted 
plants,  and  flags  or  bunting. 
30 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  31 

MENU 

First  Course.    Tomato  soup.     Saltine  crackers. 
Second  Course.     Turkey  or  chicken.     Squash.     Bread. 
Celery. 

Third  Course.    Mince,  apple,  or  pumpkin  pie. 
Fourth  Course.     Coffee  and  cake.    Nuts. 

HARVEST  SUPPER 

Decorations:  String  onions  and  pop  corn  and 
hang  in  festoons.  Make  several  frames  in  the 
shape  of  fans;  cover  them  with  cloth  and  adorn 
them  with  autumn  leaves.  A  sickle  covered  with 
wheat  heads  is  another  pretty  adornment.  Pump- 
kins, squashes,  corn,  etc.,  may  be  artistically 
arranged  in  various  forms.  The  word  "Welcome" 
can  be  made  by  driving  long  nails  through  apples. 
Other  mottoes,  signs,  borders,  etc.,  may  easily  be 
made  of  yellow  corn.  Cut  the  corn  into  pieces  not 
over  an  inch  thick  and  nail  them  in  place.  This- 
tles, milkweed,  cretonne,  cat-tails,  corn  stalks, 
seed  pods,  and  vegetables  may  be  employed  in 
many  ways  in  decorating.  Pumpkins  may  be  used 
for  flower  pots.  The  waiters  may  be  dressed  in 
the  old  style  costume  of  farmer's  sons  and  daugh- 
ters. 

(MENU 

Potatoes  Meat  Bread 

Creamed  Onions         Squash         Turnips 

Celery        Pumpkin,  Apple,  and  Mince  Pies 

Coffee 


CORN  SUPPER 


Decorations:    Everything    in    connection    with 
this  supper  should  be  suggestive  of  corn      The 


32  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

invitations,  menus,  advertising  circulars,  etc., 
should  be  printed  on  corn-colored  paper.  The 
room  should  be  decorated  with  corn  stalks,  corn 
ears,  corn  cobs,  and  mottoes  made  from  ears  of 
corn  cut  in  sections. 

MENU 
"Corn  maketh  men  cheerful"  (Zech.  9.  17) 

Corn  hulled,  with  milk 
Corn  Bread,  Baked  Beans 

Corned  Beef 
Corn  Johnny  Cake,  Corn  Gems 

Corn  Canned 

Corn  Pudding  (Baked) 

Corn-starch  Blanc  Mange 

Corn-starch  Cake 

Corn  Popped 

Coffee 

FIFTEEN-CENT  SUPPER 

This  is  always  a  drawing  supper.  Try  it  and 
you  will  be  convinced.  It  can  be  served  in  the 
parlor  of  a  home  without  tables. 

MENU 
Creamed  or  Mashed  Potatoes,  With  Corn 

Cold  Sliced  Meat 

Pickles  or  Olives    Bread  or  Buttered  Sandwiches 
Coffee  and  Cake,  or  Pie  with  Cheese 

CHICKEN  PIE  SUPPER 

Decorations:  If  possible,  have  the  tables  dec- 
orated prettily  with  smilax  and  flowers.  Candy 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  33 

and  toy  chickens  scattered  along  the  table  will 
prove  a  unique  decoration. 

MENU 
Chicken  Pie 

Mashed  Potatoes 

Bread 

Pickles 

Cranberry  Sauce. 
Coffee  or  Tea    Ice  Cream  and  Cake 

EASTER  SUPPER 

Decorations1:  Use  all  kinds  of  eggs,  china  eggs, 
candy  eggs,  hen's  eggs,  goose  eggs,  etc.  Cut  out 
eggs  from  colored  cardboard  and  make  into  fes- 
toons. Have  the  Menu  printed  on  egg-shaped 
cardboard.  Put  a  miniature  paper  egg  on  each 
guest.  Toy  and  candy  chickens  may  be  used. 
Adorn  the  table  with  Easter  lilies. 

MENU 

Mashed  Potatoes 
Eggs:    Boiled,   Fried,   Poached,   Deviled,   Scrambled,   or 

Omelet 
Egg  Salad     Bread     Pickles 

Custard  Pie 
Rice  Pudding     Tea  or  Coffee 

BAKED  BEAN  SUPPER 

MENU 
Baked  Beans 

Cold  Sliced  Meat 

Brown  Bread 
White  Bread 

Pickles 

Coffee  or  Tea 
Pie,  Cake,  or  Doughnuts 


34  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

"AN  OLD  FASHIONED  DINNER" 

MENU 

A  Country  in  Asia Turkey. 

Irishman's  Favorites Potatoes. 

A  Color  and  a  Letter Gravy. 

Cape  Cod  Fruit  and  Impudence Cranberry  Sauce. 

Breath  Scenters Onions. 

Time-measures Beets. 

Well  or  Badly  Brought  Up Bread. 

A  Goat Butter. 

A  Letter Tea. 

Crowd  of  People  in  a  Small  Place Jam. 

Mixed-up  Type Pie. 

Two  of  a  Kind Pears. 

Something  Sweet Candy. 

What  Some  People  Take The  Cake. 

What  I  Do  to  Be  Heard Ice  Cream. 

AN  OYSTER  SUPPER 

An  oyster  supper  is  usually  popular  at  any 
time  during  the  cold  weather,  but  is  most  success 
ful  early  in  the  oyster  season. 

MENU 

Oyster  Stew  Celery 

Scalloped  Oysters  Pickles 

Corn  Oysters  Mock  Oysters 

Bread  Coffee 

Doughnuts    or  Cake 
\ 

A  SNOW  SUPPER 

It  would  be  appropriate  to  have  this  supper  in 
the  summer  or  early  fall.  Decorations  should 
consist  of  white  flowers  and  feathers,  white  bunt- 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  35 

ing  or  paper,  silver  ornaments,  white  and  silvered 
fans,  swansdown  and  white  fur,  evergreen 
branches  powdered  with  flour,  shreds  of  cotton 
batting  powdered  with  diamond  dust,  imitation 
icicles,  glittering  masses  of  frosted  tinsel  thread, 
etc.  The  reception  committee  and  waiters  should 
wear  white  gowns  and  white  ornaments. 

MENU 
White  Potatoes 

Milk  Gravy 

White  Fish 

White  Onions 

White  Bread 

Milk 
Snow  Pudding 

Snow  Cake 

Ice  Cream 

Blanc-Mange 

Marshmallows 

MUM  SUPPER 

For  this  supper  the  regular  price  is  charged, 
but  an  additional  charge  is  made  every  time  a 
person  seated  at  the  table  makes  any  remark. 
The  first  time  he  speaks  he  is  fined  one  cent,  the 
second  time  two  cents,  etc.  Sentinels  must  be 
stationed  to  watch  the  guests  and  collect  fines. 
The  waiters  and  sentinels  may  try  to  induce  the 
guests  to  speak.  Most  of  them  are  sure  to  say 
something  during  the  meal,  and  much  harmless 
amusement  results.  Try  it. 

A  GUESSING  SUPPER 

Have  a  menu  printed  as  follows,  omitting  the 
parts  in  parentheses.  The  guests  will  have  to 


36  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

select  their  food  from  these  burlesque  names. 
They  will  often  get  what  they  do  not  expect,  and 
much  merriment  results. 

MENU 

A  Silenced  Squealer  (Pork),  10  cents. 
Sad  Predicaments  (Pickles),  1  cent. 
A  Tight  Squeeze  (Lemonade),  3  cents 
Tear  Drops  (Onions),  2  cents 
Rabbits  (Buns),  2  cents. 
Old-Time  Necessities  (Toothpicks),  1  cent. 
Go-Betweens  (Sandwiches),  3  cents. 
Pressed  Cow-Juice  (Cheese),  1  cent. 
Liquid  Berries  (Coffee),  3  cents. 
Something  on  Tap  (Tapioca),  3  cents. 
Confused  Mixtures  (Jumbles),  1  cent. 
Irishman's  Favorite  (Potatoes),  3  cents. 
Golden  Globes  (Oranges),  3  cents. 
Sweetheart's  Favorite  Dish  (Ice  Cream),  10  cents 

MEN'S  SUPPER 

Let  the  ladies  plan  the  supper  and  let  the  men 
do  the  rest.  The  ladies  can  easily  interest  the 
men  in  at  least  one  supper  a  year.  Let  the  men 
do  the  work  in  the  kitchen,  wait  on  tables,  receive 
the  guests,  etc.  This  plan  has  proven  very  popular 
in  many  churches  and  will  prove  so  in  yours. 

A  PROGRESSIVE  DINNER 

This  is  so  called  because  the  ladies  are  made 
to  progress,  while  the  gentlemen  occupy  the  same 
seats  throughout  the  meal.  The  gentlemen  are 
placed  on  one  side  of  the  table  and  the  ladies  on 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  37 

the  other.  After  every  course  a  bell  is  rung 
and  the  ladies  move  to  the  next  seat.  The  lady  at 
the  end  will  move  to  the  opposite  end.  A  card 
is  placed  at  every  plate,  and  each  guest  is  required 
to  write  a  favorite  quotation.  At  the  close  of  the 
meal  these  quotations  are  read  so  that  alb  may 
hear.  The  progressive  dinner  breaks  up  all 
formality,  and  everybody  becomes  acquainted  and 
has  a  good  time. 

SAINT  VALENTINE  SUPPER 

This  takes  place  on  Saint  Valentine  evening. 
Send  out  invitations  in  the  form  of  hearts.  For 
this  purpose  heart-shaped  cards  may  be  purchased 
or  they  may  be  cut  out  of  heavy  water-color  paper. 
These  invitations  may  be  very  simple  or  decorated 
with  dainty  colors.  The  invitation  may  be  worded 
as  follows : 

You  are  cordially  invited  to  attend  the  Saint  Valen- 
tine Supper  and  Social  given  by  our  Ladies'  Aid.  A 
delicious  supper  and  a  good  time  await  you. 

This  invitation   on  this  heart, 
Comes  direct  from  my  heart. 

(To  be  signed  by  a  member  of  the  Aid.) 

Have  a  reception  committee  ready  to  welcome 
the  guests.  Pin  a  small  heart  on  each  lady  and 
a  cupid  on  each  gentleman.  Have  the  hearts  and 
cupids  numbered  consecutively,  beginning  with 
one.  Let  the  gentleman  find  the  lady  who  has  the 
number  to  correspond  with  his  and  escort  her  to 
supper. 

Some  of  the  food  may  be  served  in  the  form  of 


38  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

hearts.  Sandwiches,  cakes,  ice  cream,  etc.,  may 
be  served  thus.  Several  large  heart-shaped  cakes 
should  adorn  the  tables.  At  the  conclusion  of  the 
supper  every  guest  should  be  given  a  valentine  to 
be  retained  as  a  souvenir. 

A  COLONIAL  SUPPER 

The  waiters  and  the  Reception  Committee 
'should  dress  in  colonial  style,  with  white  wigs  or 
powdered  hair,  etc.  Decorations,  consisting  of 
old  pictures,  flags,  spinning  wheels,  etc.,  should 
be  freely  used. 

The  Menu  may  be  somewhat  as  follows :  Fricas- 
seed Chicken,  Waffles,  Cornbread,  Potatoes,  Salad, 
Coffee,  Rich  Preserves,  and  Cake. 

In  connection  with  the  supper  an  entertain- 
ment should  be  given.  The  program  should  con- 
sist of  old-time  songs,  tableaux,  recitations,  etc. 
A  tableau  representing  the  making  of  the  first 
flag  by  Betsy  Ross  would  be  appropriate.  A 
small  American  flag  or  a  small  hatchet  would  be 
an  excellent  souvenir  to  give  the  guests. 

STRAWBERRY  FESTIVAL 

This  should  be  held  early  in  the  strawberry 
season.  Flowers,  green  boughs,  ferns,  etc.,  would 
be  very  appropriate  for  decorations. 

MENU 
Potatoes         Cold   Sliced  Meat         Bread         Pickles 

Strawberry  Shortcake          Strawberries  and  Cream 
Coffee        Cheese 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  39 

LADIES'  AID  SUPPER 

Have  menus  printed  with  the  first  letter  in  each 
line  in  large,  heavy-faced  type.  This  is  novel  and, 
at  the  same  time,  is  an  excellent  menu. 

Lemon  Pie,  5  cents. 
Apple  Sauce,  3  cents. 
Doughnuts,  2  cents. 
Irish  Potatoes,  3  cents. 
Entree,  3  cents. 
Salad,  2  cents. 

Asparagus,  3  cents. 
Ice  Cream,  10  cents. 
Delicious  Chicken,  15  cents. 

Syrup  or  Butter,  1  cent. 
Uneeda  Biscuits,  2  cents. 
Pudding,  3  cents. 
Pickles,  1  cent. 
Eggs,  3  cents. 
Bolls,  3  cents. 

A  CONUNDRUM  PARTY 

This  is  a  very  simple  but  delightful  Party. 
Each  gentleman  is  given  a  conundrum  written  on 
paper,  and  each  lady  is  given  a  corresponding 
answer.  Then  each  gentleman  finds  the  lady  who 
has  the  answer  to  his  conundrum  and  escorts  her 
to  supper.  After  supper  the  conundrums  are  read 
by  some  one  selected  for  the  purpose  and,  when  no 
one  can  guess  the  answer,  it  is  given  to  the  one 
holding  the  written  answer.  Then  each  guest  in 


40  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

turn  should  suggest  other  conundrums.  In  pre- 
paring the  menu,  have  the  first  letter  of  each  line 
printed  in  large,  heavy-faced  type.  Do  not  print 
the  words  in  brackets. 

MENTJ 

Guests   may   choose   five   out   of  the  following  nine 
articles  of  food. 

Country  Favorites.     (Potatoes.) 

Often  done  by  Lovers.     (Meat.) 

No  Matter  What.     (Hash.) 

TJ  Like  it.     (Bread.) 

Naughty  Animal.     (Butter.) 

Desirable  with  Every  Meal.     (Dessert.) 

Rhymes  with  Born.     (Corn.) 

Universal  Necessity.     (Drinks.) 

My  Sweetheart's  Dish.      (Ice  Cream.) 

COFFEES  AND  TEAS 

These  should  be  held  in  a  spacious  and  centrally 
located  house.  Hours  from  3  to  6  P.  M.  People 
should  be  urged  to  come  at  any  convenient  time 
and  remain  as  long  as  they  desire.  A  Social  Com- 
mittee should  meet  and  welcome  all  who  come. 
A  few  popular  readings,  vocal  and  instrumental 
selections,  etc.,  should  be  provided.  A  light  lunch, 
consisting  of  tea,  coffee,  doughnuts,  crackers, 
wafers  and  cheese,  should  be  served.  Ten  or 
fifteen  cents  may  be  charged,  and  the  guests 
requested  to  drop  the  same  in  a  suitable  dish 
placed  on  the  table.  The  whole  affair  should  be> 
informal.  Many  churches  hold  these  Teas  or 
Coffees  every  month. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  41 

KACE-COURSE  SUPPER 
MENU 

First  Lap 
Tomato  Soup 

Second  Lap 
Scalloped  Oysters 

Third  Lap 
Blue  Fish 

Fourth  Lap 
Beef  and  Murphies 

Fifth  Lap 
Celery  Sticks 

Sixth  Lap 
Lady   Finger  Rolls 

Seventh  Lap 
Gold  Medal  Griddle  Cakes 

Eighth  Lap 
Tea  or  Coffee 

Homestretch 
Slivers 


CHAPTER  IX 

ENTERTAINMENTS  AND  OTHER  MONEY- 
MAKING  PLANS 

The  entertainments  and  other  plans  suggested 
in  this  chapter  are  all  simple  and  practical.  They 
have  all  proven  very  successful  when  properly 
worked  out.  No  reasonable  objection  can  be  urged 
against  any  of  them. 

MEASURING  PARTY 

Let  each  of  the  ladies  make  a  number  of  small 
sacks  from  remnants  of  silk,  etc.  These  sacks 
should  be  shirred  so  that  the  money  will  be  held 
securely.  One  qf  these  sacks  and  a  printed  invita- 
tion should  be  inclosed  in  an  envelope  and  sent 
to  every  person  in  the  church  and  to  friends  out- 
side of  the  church.  One  envelope  and  one  invita- 
tion will  be  sufficient  for  one  family,  but  the 
envelope  should  contain  a  sufficient  number  of 
sacks  for  each  member  of  the  family.  Light 
refreshments  and  a  spicy  program  should  be  pro- 
vided. After  the  party  is  over  the  bags  may  be 
preserved  for  future  use. 

The  following  form  of  invitation  is  suggested : 

MEASURING  PARTY 

(Put  place  and  time  here) 
Dear  Friend: 

This  Party  is  given  to  you; 
Tis  something  novel  as  well  as  new. 
We  send  to  each  one  a  little  sack, 
Return  it  yourself,  or  send  it  back, 

42 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  43 

With  TWO  CENTS  in  It  for  each  foot  tall, 
Measuring  yourself  on  door  or  wall, 
For  each  inch  over,  ONE  CENT  please  give, 
And  thereby  we'll  guess  how  high  you  live. 
Refreshments  we'll  serve  without  more  pay, 
Be  sure  to  come,  and  don't  forget  the  day. 
With  music  and  song,  recitation  and  pleasure, 
We'll  meet  one  and  all  at  our  Party  of  Measure. 


This  is  held  on  the  evening  of  October  thirty- 
first.  The  principal  decoration  should  consist  of 
pumpkin  Jack-o'-lanterns  hung  from  the  ceilings. 
The  gas  globes  may  be  covered  with  orange- 
colored  tissue  paper  to  simulate  Jack-o'-lanterns. 
This  tissue  paper  may  also  be  effectively  used  in 
making  festoons.  Refreshments  should  consist 
of  apples,  nuts,  fruits,  cheese,  griddle  cakes,  eggs, 
and  pumpkin  pies.  After  supper  is  a  fitting  time 
to  tell  ghost  stories,  relate  strange  incidents,  sing 
weird  songs,  etc.  Social  diversions  may  then  be 
introduced,  such  as  bobbing  for  apples,  popping 
corn,  roasting  chestnuts,  etc. 

WASHINGTON  BIRTHDAY  PARTY 

This  should  be  held  on  the  evening  of  February 
twenty-second.  A  gentleman  should  be  dressed  to 
represent  George  and  a  lady  to  represent  Martha 
Washington.  Pictures  of  George  and  Martha 
should  be  hung  on  the  walls.  American  flags,  and 
red,  white,  and  blue  bunting  or  paper  should  be 
freely  used  in  the  decorations. 

The  entertainment  should  consist  of  old-time 
songs,  readings,  etc.  A  dainty  lunch  should  be 
served  by  young  ladies  dressed  in  old-fashioned 


44  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

costumes.     All  these  features  should  be  empha- 
sized in  advertising  the  party. 

Printed  invitations  should  be  used  freely.  The 
following  form  is  suggested.  Be  sure  to  have  the 
first  letter  of  each  line  set  in  large,  heavy-faced 
type,  as  these  letters  spell  the  name  "WASHING- 
TON." 

THE  FATHER  OF  His  COUNTRY 

"FIRST  IN  WAR,  FIRST  IN  PEACE,  FIRST  IN  THE 
HEARTS   OF  HIS   COUNTRYMEN" 

Welcome  to  our  "Washington  Birthday  Party. 

At  the  Methodist  Church, eve,  February  22d. 

Shall  we  not  have  the  pleasure  of  seeing  you? 
Help  us  to  make  this  occasion  a  happy  one. 
Interesting  musical  and  literary  program. 
Now,  please  be  on  hand  without  fail. 
George  Washington's  memory  should  oe  revered. 
The  proceeds  will  be  given  to  the  Ladies'  Aia. 
Only  come  and  you  will  have  a  delightful  time. 
Nice,  dainty  lunch  will  be  served. 

ADMISSION 

Ye  Adults:    One   cent  for  each  letter  in  the  name, 
George  Washington. 
Ye  Children:  One-half  cent  for  each  letter. 

Yours   on   behalf   of   the    Ladies'    Aid. 

(To  be  signed  by  the  person  sending.) 

THE  DOLLAR  SOCIAL 

This  social  is  as  unique  as  it  is  effective.  The 
Ladies'  Aid  requests  every  lady  in  the  parish  to 
earn  or  save  a  dollar,  and  to  bring  it  to  the  Social 
and  tell  in  prose  or  poetry  how  they  secured  the 
money.  These  reports  of  how  the  money  was 
secured  furnish  much  amusement.  Refreshments 
should  be  furnished  free  of  charge.  The  ladies 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  45 

may  earn  or  save  the  dollar  by  doing  their  own 
washing,  ironing,  baking  food  and  selling  it,  clean- 
ing house  for  a  neighbor,  walking  and  saving  car 
fare,  sewing,  omitting  desserts  for  a  few  days, 
etc.  A  printed  request  somewhat  as  follows  should 
be  sent  to  each  lady  in  the  parish. 

LADIES'  AID  DOLLAB  SOCIAL 
(State  Place  and  Time) 

Just  one  dollar  is  all  that  we  ask, 
And  surely  'twill  not  be  a  hard  task 
To  earn  this  dollar  for  the  Ladies'  Aid, 
By  cooking,  cleaning,  or  serving  as  maid. 
Then  at  our  Social  tell  the  story, 
How  you  earned  the  dollar  and  glory. 

PLEASE  Do  NOT 
DISAPPOINT  Us 

(To  be  signed  by  the  sender.) 

HANDKERCHIEF  BAZAAR 

A  lunch  or  supper  may  be  served  in  connection 
with  this  Bazaar.  Other  useful  articles  may  also 
be  placed  on  sale.  These  handkerchief  bazaars 
have  proved  very  popular  and  very  successful. 
The  following  request  for  people  to  contribute 
handkerchiefs  is  suggested.  Send  these  not  only 
to  the  people  in  town  but  send  them  by  mail  to  all 
your  friends. 

HANDKERCHIEF  BAZAAR   METHODIST  CHURCH 

Held  under  the  auspices  of  the  Ladies'  Aid 

To  all  our  friends,  though  far  or  near, 

We  crave  your  kind  attention; 
So  please  lend  to  us  now  your  ear 

While  we  a  subject  mention. 


4G  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

The  ladies  of  our  church  will  hold, 
On  a  day  not  distant  far, 

If  we  have  been  correctly  told, 
A  "Handkerchief  Bazaar." 


So  this,  then,  is  our  plea  in  brief, 

To  help  along  our  enterprise 
You  each  shall  send  a  handkerchief, 

Regardless  of  its  kind  or  size. 
To  be  without  a  handkerchief, 

You  know,  is  quite  distressing; 
From  every  person  let  one  be  sent — 

'Twill  surely  be  a  blessing. 

(To  be  signed  by  the  sender.) 


ANNUAL  BAZAAR 

Many  Ladies'  Aids  hold  an  annual  bazaar  a  few 
weeks  before  the  holidays,  and  always  realize  a 
good  sum  from  the  sales.  Many  people  will  buy 
presents  for  their  friends  just  before  the  holidays. 
Besides,  they  prefer  to  buy  articles  made  by  hand 
than  the  manufactured  kind.  Booths  should  be 
constructed  and  decorated  as  prettily  as  possible. 
Booths  named  as  follows  will  have  an  attraction 
for  all  classes:  Ladies'  Aid  Booth,  Epworth 
League  Booth,  Sunday  School  Booth,  Junior 
League  Booth,  The  Men's  Booth,  Baby's  Booth, 
Missionary  Booth,  Candy  Booth,  Pastry  Booth, 
etc.  Then  the  articles  contributed  may  be  placed 
in  the  various  booths  where  they  would  be  the 
most  appropriate.  Many  Ladies'  Aids  serve  sup- 
per in  connection  with  the  Annual  Bazaar.  The 
solicitors  for  the  Bazaar  may  use  printed  cards 
like  the  following: 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  47 

(Name  of  the  Church) 

ANNUAL  BAZAAR 
Under  the  Auspices  of  the  Ladies'  Aid 

(Date  and  Place) 

Dear  Friend:  The  ladies  of  our  church  would  be 
deeply  grateful  to  you  if  you  will  contribute  one  or 
more  articles  to  the  above  Bazaar.  Some  of  the  things 
we  need  are  the  following:  Aprons,  Handkerchiefs, 
Embroideries,  Dolls,  Toys,  Children's  Games,  Wearing 
Apparel,  Quilts,  China,  Glassware,  Tinware,  Nuts, 
Candy,  Cakes,  Fruit,  Preserves,  Jellies,  Stationery,  Pic- 
tures, Athletic  Goods,  Men's  Furnishings,  etc.  Any- 
thing beautiful,  useful,  salable  will  be  thankfully 
received.  I  will  call  for  your  contribution  a  few  days 
before  the  Bazaar  opens.  Thanking  you  for  any  help 
which  you  may  render,  I  am 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

(To  be  signed  by  the  sender.) 

A  BAZAAR  OP  THE  STATES 

This  is  a  very  unique  Bazaar,  and  will  prove  a 
great  success  if  the  following  directions  are  care- 
fully observed.  The  room  should  be  decorated 
with  the  national  colors.  Flags,  red  white,  and 
blue  bunting  or  paper,  shields,  etc.,  should  be 
freely  employed. 

Have  one  booth  to  represent  the  Sugar  and  Cot- 
ton States,  another  to  represent  the  Mineral 
States,  another  to  represent  the  Lumber  States, 
another  to  represent  the  Manufacturing  States, 
another  to  represent  the  Corn  and  Fruit  States, 
another  to  represent  Little  States.  Put  names  of 
the  group  of  States  above  each  booth.  Place  con- 
tributed articles  in  appropriate  booth.  Decorate 
each  booth  appropriately.  In  securing  articles,  use 
the  same  plan  suggested  for  the  Annual  Bazaar. 


48  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

FANCY  SOCK  SOCIAL  AND  ENTERTAINMENT 

First,  let  the  ladies  meet  and  plan  to  make  any 
desired  number  of  miniature  silly  socks.  Each 
sock  must  be  shirred  in  Prefer  to  prevent  the 
money  from  dropping  out.  One  of  these  socks 
and  a  printed  invitation  should  be  sent  to  every 
person  in  the  church  and  to  friends  outside  the 
church.  One  envelope  and  one  invitation  will  be 
sufficient  for  each  family,  but  the  envelope  should 
contain  a  sufficient  number  of  socks  for  each  mem- 
ber of  the  family.  The  ladies  should  also  pre- 
pare an  appetizing  lunch  and  some  social  diver- 
sions. The  following  form  of  invitation  is  sug- 
gested : 

SOCK  SOCIAL 

Under  Auspices  of  the  Ladies'  Aid 
(Time  and  Place) 

This  little  sock  we  give  to  you 

Is  not  for  you  to  wear; 
Please  multiply  your  size  by  two 

And  place  inside  with  care 
In  silver  or  in  cents, 

Twice  the  number  that  you  wear 
(We  hope  it  is  immense.) 

So  if  you  wear  a  No.  10, 
You  owe  us  twenty;  see? 

Which  dropped  in  the  little  sock 
Will  fill  our  hearts  with  glee. 

So  don't  forget  the  place  and  date. 
We'll  answer  when  you  knock, 

And  welcome  you  with  open  arms — 
But  don't  forget  your  sock. 

A  delightful  musical  and  literary  program  will 

be  rendered  without  further  charge. 

Free  lunch  also  served. 

(To  be  signed  by  the  sender.) 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  49 

COLLECTING  OLD  PAPERS 

Many  Ladies'  Aids  in  recent  years  have  raised 
good  sums  of  money  by  collecting  and  selling  old 
papers,  etc.  Canvass  every  family  in  the  parish 
and  request  them  to  save  their  papers,  magazines, 
etc.,  for  the  Ladies'  Aid.  Collect  them  in  the 
spring  and  fall  and  ship  them  in  large  quantities 
to  Pioneer  Paper  Stock  Co.,  Chicago,  or  to  West- 
ern Paper  Stock  Co.,  Chicago,  or  any  other  com- 
pany near  your  town  or  city.  Write  first  and  get 
quotations  and  directions  for  shipping.  School- 
boys may  be  hired  at  small  expense  to  collect  and 
load  these  papers. 

BIRTHDAY  PARTY 

This  party  has  proven  a  popular  attraction 
wherever  given.  A  general  invitation  is  given 
to  all  the  people  in  the  parish  or  community.  It 
will  prove  most  effective,  however,  to  send  printed 
or  written  invitations.  Each  guest  is  asked  to 
give  as  many  cents  as  the  date  of  the  month  on 
which  the  birthday  comes.  For  illustration :  if 
the  birthday  is  on  the  twentieth  day  of  the  month, 
twenty  cents  is  given.  If  it  is  on  the  first  day, 
only  one  cent  is  given.  By  this  plan,  not  over 
thirty-one  cents  is  given  by  any  person. 

Separate  the  company  into  groups,  those  born 
in  January  being  in  one  group,  etc.  Poetic  and 
prose  selections  appropriate  to  the  different 
months  may  be  given.  Songs  appropriate  for  the 
different  seasons  may  be  sung.  Each  group  may 
be  asked  to  compose  a  poem  concerning  their 
month,  the  same  to  be  read  to  the  whole  company. 
Other  similar  features  may  be  introduced. 


60  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

Ice  cream,  cake,  and  coffee  may  be  served.  A 
large  birthday  cake  may  be  provided,  and  each 
guest  given  a  piece,  the  oldest  person  present 
being  asked  to  cut  the  cake. 

THE  OLD-FASHIONED  DISTRICT  SCHOOL 

The  persons  participating  in  this  entertainment 
should  be  in  middle  life  and  should  include  a 
number  of  the  most  prominent  people  of  the  com- 
munity. The  success  will  depend  largely  upon 
securing  such  persons.  The  costumes  should  be 
of  the  olden  school  times.  Rude  benches  for  the 
pupils  and  an  old  desk  for  the  teacher  should  be 
secured.  The  entertainment  shoufd  be  divided 
into  three  parts:  Forenoon  Session,  Noon  Hour, 
Afternoon  Session.  These  grown  children  wend 
their  way  to  school,  answer  the  roll,  study,  recite, 
sing,  etc.  A  spelling  match  should  be  a  leading 
feature.  At  the  noon  hour  they  amuse  themselves 
with  the  old  pastimes.  In  the  afternoon  the 
school  committee  visit  the  school,  ask  questions, 
etc.  Some  of  the  pupils  are  prepared  to  give 
amusing  answers,  which  disgust  the  committee, 
mortify  the  teacher,  etc. 

This  is  one  of  the  most  popular  entertainments 
ever  devised.  It  requires  but  little  preparation 
and  only  a  few  rehearsals.  It  always  draws 
large  crowds  and  delights  old  and  young  alike. 

AUTOGRAPH  QUILT 

This  is  an  old  way  of  raising  money,  but  a 
clean  and  effective  way.  Pieces  of  muslin  about 
eight  inches  square  are  stamped  in  the  center  and 
then  are  outlined  in  turkey-red  cotton.  The  cor- 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  51 

ners  are  marked  in  lead  pencil  with  autographs, 
and  are  also  outlined  in  turkey-red  cotton.  A 
charge  of  fifteen  or  twenty-five  cents  may  be  asked 
for  each  autograph.  Each  member  is  requested 
to  take  one  of  these  squares  and  solicit  auto- 
graphs from  her  friends.  She  outlines  these  and 
also  the  figure  in  the  center.  When  the  squares 
are  all  completed  the  ladies  meet  and  sew  them 
together  with  strips  of  turkey-red  muslin,  and 
line  the  quilt  with  the  same.  The  quilt  may  then 
be  sold  to  the  highest  bidder,  or  given  to  the  pas- 
tor's family. 

A  TRIP  AROUND  THE  WORLD 

This  novel  plan  for  raising  money  has  been  a 
pronounced  success  wherever  it  has  been  properly 
handled.  First  of  all,  nine  homes  in  different 
parts  of  the  town  or  city  should  be  secured.  These 
homes  will  represent  nine  different  countries 
as  follows :  The  British  Isles,  Russia,  Italy,  Pales- 
tine, China,  Japan,  Hawaiian  Islands,  South 
America,  and  the  United  States.  One  or  two 
rooms  in  each  home  should  be  decorated  in  accord- 
ance with  the  prevailing  customs  of  the  different 
countries.  Thus  the  home  representing  the  United 
States  should  be  decorated  with  American  flags, 
red,  white,  and  blue  bunting  or  paper,  pictures  of 
noted  Americans,  national  emblems,  etc.  In  like 
manner  the  Japanese  home  should  be  decorated 
to  suggest  Japan,  etc. 

The  committee  in  charge  at  each  home  should 
be  dressed  in  appropriate  costumes  to  represent 
the  different  countries. 


62  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

A  sufficient  number  of  carriages  and  automo- 
biles should  be  secured  to  convey  the  passengers 
from  one  country  to  another.  A  brief 'stop  is 
made  in  each  country,  appropriate  refreshments 
are  served,  a  few  social  moments  are  enjoyed,  and 
then  the  passengers  move  on.  Souvenirs  may  be 
placed  on  sale  in  each  country.  These  are  easily 
sold  to  the  tourists. 

The  United  States  will  represent  the  Union 
Station  from  which  the  start  is  made  and  where 
the  fare  (25,  35,  or  50  cents)  is  paid  (including 
refreshments)  for  the  entire  trip.  The  tourists 
will  eventually  arrive  at  the  Union  Station  from 
whence  the  tour  begins.  The  hours  should  be 
from  2  to  10  P.  M.  This  trip  is  sure  to  be  very 
popular,  and  will  net  a  good  sum  of  money. 

The  following  itinerary,  together  with  the 
appropriate  refreshments,  is  suggested: 

United  States    (Union  Depot) 

1.  British  Isles.  Cold  sliced  meat  and  potatoes. 

2.  Russia.  Rye  bread  and  apple  sauce. 

3.  Italy.  Macaroni  served  in  several  styles. 

4.  Palestine.  Corn  served  in  several  styles.- 

5.  China.  Rice  served  in  several  styles. 

6.  Japan.  Tea  and  Wafers. 

7.  Hawaiian  Islands.  Fruit. 

8.  South  America.  Coffee  and  Saltine  crackers. 

9.  United  States.  Ice  Cream  and  cake. 

A  printed  copy  of  the  itinerary  should  be  placed 
in  the  hands  of  every  tourist  as  he  leaves  the 
Union  Station.  The  trip  should  be  preceded  by 
two  weeks  of  thorough  advertising. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  53 

AUTOMOBILE  SOCIAL 

This  is  most  successful  during  the  summer 
months.  The  social  should  take  the  form  of  a 
lawn  party,  and  the  refreshments  should  consist 
of  ice  cream  and  cake. 

All  friends,  both  in  and  out  of  the  church,  who 
own  automobiles  should  be  requested  to  contribute 
their  use  for  an  evening  to  the  Ladies'  Aid.  Most 
men  who  own  machines  will  cheerfully  consent  to 
help  the  ladies.  Charge  25  cents  for  refreshments 
and  one  ride  in  the  automobile.  A  ride  of  not 
over  two  miles  will  be  sufficient.  The  great 
majority  of  people  rarely  get  the  opportunity  to 
ride  in  an  automobile,  and  this  kind  of  a  social 
will  appeal  to  them.  It  has  proven  a  great  suc- 
cess wherever  tried,  and  it  will  surely  succeed  in 
your  town. 


Let  the  ladies  organize  a  living  calendar  repre- 
senting one  year,  12  months,  52  weeks,  and  364 
days.  The  lady  representing  the  year  agrees  to 
raise  or  give  five  dollars.  The  ladies  representing 
the  twelve  months  agree  to  give  one  dollar  each, 
and  to  secure  fifty-two  ladies  to  represent  the 
weeks.  Thus  eight  of  the  ladies  would  secure  four 
ladies  each,  and  four  ladies  would  secure  fire 
ladies  each.  Then  each  of  these  fifty-two  ladies 
representing  the  weeks  agrees  to  give  fifty  cents 
each,  and  also  to  sell  to  their  friends  seven  days 
at  twenty-five  cents  apiece.  The  object  should  be 
to  form  an  unbroken,  living  calendar  for  a  year. 
The  interest  will  increase  as  the  project  becomes 


54  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

understood,  and  the  workers  push  it.  Take  one 
month  to  accomplish  this  work.  Then  celebrate 
the  victory  by  having  an  evening  social  and  free 
refreshments.  The  above  plan  will  net  $134.  In 
large  Ladies'  Aids  the  plan  may  be  pushed  still 
further  and  the  hours  sold  for  ten  cents  each. 

THE  PUNCH  CARD 

Have  a  large  number  of  cards  printed  like  the 
form  given  below.  Let  each  lady  take  one  or 
more  cards  and  they  will  experience  no  difficulty 
whatever  in  getting  all  the  ciphers  punched.  The 
ladies  may  also  give  cards  to  their  gentlemen 
friends  and  ask  them  to  collect  the  desired 
amount. 

PLEASE  GIVE  ME  A  PUNCH 

And  Help  Me 
(Here  state  the  object  for  which  you  desire  money) 

I  have  promised  to  fill  up  this  card, 
And  it  will  not  be  much  of  a  task, 

If  you'll  only  hand  out  of  your  pocket, 
The  single  penny  I  ask. 

(Thank  you.) 

NOTE. — Use  a  pin  to  punch  holes.  You  may  punch 
as  many  holes  as  you  desire  at  a  penny  a  punch. 

A  MILE  OF  PENNIES 

A  device  called  the  "Champion  Coin  Collector" 
has  been  used  very  effectively  by  many  Ladies' 
Aids.  It  costs  little  and  earns  much.  The  device 
is  a  foot  long  and  so  arranged  that  the  coins  are 
visible.  It  may  be  had  in  two  colors,  thus  mak- 
ing it  possible  to  carry  out  the  contest  plan  if 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  55 

desired.  Two  sizes  are  made,  one  for  pennies  and 
dimes  and  the  other  for  nickels.  One  hundred  feet 
costs  $2.25,  and  will  earn  $16  in  pennies,  $65  in 
nickels,  or  $160  in  dimes.  A  mile  of  pennies  thus 
collected  would  amount  to  $844.80.  This  device 
may  be  secured  from  our  Book  Concern. 

"Fifty-two  hundred  eighty  feet 

Stretched  out  make  just  a  mile, 
And  sixteen  cents  for  every  foot 
Are  enough  to  be  worth  while. 

"It  won't  take  long  to  get  the  cents 

To  fill  a  foot  or  two. 
Then  if  you've  sense  to  work  right  on 
And  others  help  you,  too, 

"You'll  be  surprised  to  find  ere  long 

The  task  that  seemed  so  great 
Is  done  with  ease,  for  foot  by  foot 
Pennies  easily  accumulate." 

s 

POST-CARDS,  CALENDARS,  ETC. 

Post-cards,  aluminum  souvenirs,  calendars, 
match  safes,  wall  plaques,  blotter  holders,  etc., 
yield  a  legitimate  revenue.  You  can  have  post- 
cards, calendars,  aluminum  trays,  etc.,  made  to 
order  with  pictures  of  church  and  pastor.  These 
are  especially  desirable  at  Bazaars. 

ENVELOPE  BUYERS 

These  buyers  are  successfully  used  in  raising 
money  for  new  buildings,  churches,  parsonages, 
carpets,  bell,  windows,  books,  organ,  piano,  etc. 
They  should  be  placed  in  the  hands  of  the  mem- 
bers of  the  congregation  and  distributed  among 


66  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

the  children  in  the  Sunday  school.  Any  amount 
may  be  charged  for  a  brick,  stone,  etc.,  cross- 
marks  indicating  the  numbers  sold.  The  following 
variety  of  envelope  buyers  may  be  secured:  The 
Seat  Buyer,  Brick  Buyer,  Book  Buyer,  Carpet 
Buyer,  Stone  Buyer,  Parsonage  Buyer,  Roof 
Buyer,  Organ  Buyer,  Piano  Buyer,  Cushion 
Buyer,  Window  Buyer,  Epworth  League  Collector, 
Bell  Buyer,  Harvest  Gleaner,  Children's  Day 
Gleaner,  Penny  Gleaner,  Nickel  Gleaner,  Dime 
Gleaner,  Time  Buyer,  Star  Buyer,  Free-Will 
Buyer,  Improvement  Fund  Buyer,  Thermometer 
Buyer,  U.  S.  Mail  Collector. 

These  buyers  are  manufactured  by  MacCalla 
&  Co.,  237-9  Dock  Street,  Philadelphia.  They  cost 
one  dollar  per  one  hundred,  and  may  be  secured 
through  our  Book  Concern. 

DRILLS  AND  MARCHES 

Drills  and  Marches  are  always  popular  and 
may  be  relied  upon  to  draw  a  crowd.  These  can 
only  be  given,  however,  when  a  large  stage  is 
available  or  on  a  lawn  in  the  summer.  The  com- 
pass of  this  book  will  not  permit  the  outlining 
of  these  drills  and  marches.  The  names  of  vari- 
ous drills  are  suggested,  and  a  good  committee 
can  devise  movements  for  each  drill  or  march. 
Among  the  most  popular  drills  are  the  following : 
Hoop  Drill  and  March,  Waiter  Drill,  Doll  Drill, 
New  Tambourine  Drill,  Mother  Goose  Reception 
and  Drill,  Little  Patriot's  Drill,  Broom  Drill, 
Umbrella  March,  Dumb-Bell  Drill,  Mother  Goose 
Medley,  Dairy  Maid's  Drill,  Fan  Drill,  Lily  March 
and  Song,  Parasol  Drill. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  57 

The  following  books  on  Marches  and  Drills  are 
suggested : 

Drills  and  Marches,  by  E.  C.  and  L.  J.  Rook. 

Ideal  Drills,  by  Morton. 

Exhibition  Drills  and  Marches,  by  Wilson. 

New  Century  Drills,  by  Fuller. 

Any  of  these  books  may  be  secured  through  The 
Methodist  Book  Concern,  or  its  depositories. 


CHAPTER  X 
SOCIAL  IDEAS 

The  following  Social  Ideas  may  be  employed  in 
connection  with  suppers,  entertainments,  etc.  It 
would  be  a  wise  plan  for  the  Ladies'  Aid  to  have 
a  free  social  occasionally.  At  such  a  social  the 
ideas  suggested  here  will  be  valuable. 

A  TOPIC  SOCIAL 

Each  person  is  given  a  printed  program  with 
various  topics  arranged  upon  it.  The  company  is 
then  divided  into  two  equal  parts.  At  the  ring- 
ing of  a  bell,  every  person  on  one  side  must  secure 
a  partner  from  the  other  side,  and  must  discuss 
the  first  topic  on  the  program  for  five  minutes. 
Then  the  bell  rings  again  and  new  partners  must 
be  found  and  the  second  topic  discussed  for  five 
minutes,  and  so  on  through  the  program.  Vocal 
and  instrumental  music  may  be  introduced  to 
make  the  entertainment  a  varied  one.  The  names 
of  the  persons  with  whom  the  topics  are  discussed 
should  be  entered  opposite  the  topics.  This  would 
make  a  unique  souvenir  of  the  occasion. 

The  following  program  is  suggested : 

Topics  Names  of  Partners. 

1.  Breakfast  Foods.  

2.  The  Weather.  

3.  Ladies'  Hats.  

4.  Our  Church.  

5.  Your  Favorite  Writer.  

58 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  59 

Topics  Names  of  Partners. 

6.  Does    Distance    Lend    En- 

chantment?  

7.  The  Money  Craze.  

8.  Politics.  

9.  Latest  Fads.  

10.  Best  Recreations.  

11.  Which  is  the  Better  Half?     

12.  Why  be  Optimistic?  

13.  Why  go  to  College?  

14.  Our  Peculiarities.  

15.  Ideal  Home  Life. 


ALLITERATION  GAME 

The  game  begins  by  one  of  the  guests  announc- 
ing: "I  have  a  letter  addressed  to  Beulah 
Brackett,  and  it  must  be  sent  to  Buffalo."  The 
next  person  must  take  the  final  letter  of  the  place 
mentioned,  and  at  once  use  it  as  the  first  letter  in 
the  name  of  another  person  and  place.  Thus: 
"Buffalo"  ending  in  "o,"  he  must  say,  "I  have  a 
letter  addressed  to  Olga  Owens,  and  it  must  be 
sent  to  Oswego."  Each  person  in  turn  must  send 
a  letter.  Many  will  become  confused  in  their 
haste  to  send  their  letter,  and  much  harmless 
amusement  results. 

COMPLETING  PROVERBS 

This  is  always  an  enjoyable  social  diversion. 
It  should  be  conducted  in  the  same  manner  as  a 
spelling  match.  Let  two  persons  act  as  captains 
and  choose  sides,  and  arrange  the  sides  in  lines. 
The  one  in  charge  gives  the  first  one  or  two  words 
of  a  well-known  proverb.  The  one  at  the  head 
of  the  line  tries  to  complete  the  proverb.  If  he 


60  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

fails,  he  must  be  seated  and  the  person  opposite 
tries  to  complete  it,  etc.  A  prize  may  be  awarded 
to  the  one  who  remains  to  the  last.  The  proverbs 
must  be  familiar  ones.  The  following  are  sug- 
gested, and  the  list  may  be  extended  at  will. 

1.  Time  and  tide  wait  for  no  man. 

2.  Variety  is  the  spice  of  life. 

3.  Handsome  is  that  handsome  does. 

4.  A  rolling  stone  gathers  no  moss. 

5.  Well  begun  is  half  done. 

6.  God  helps  those  who  help  themselves. 

7.  A  stitch  in  time  saves  nine. 

8.  No  news  is  good  news. 

9.  Half  a  loaf  is  better  than  none. 

10.  Every  cloud  has  a  silver  lining. 

11.  Still  waters  run  deep. 

12.  A  friend  in  need  is  a  friend^  indeed. 

13.  The  early  bird,  catches  the  worm. 

14.  Never  put  off  until  to-morrow  what  you  can  do 
to-day. 

15.  Many  hands  make  light  work.  v 

16.  A  bird  in  the  hand  is  worth  twojtfn  the  bush. 

17.  Make  hay  while  the  sun  shines.      ^ 

18.  Better  late  than  never. 

19.  Appearances  are  often  deceiving. 

20.  It's  a  poor  rule  that  won't  work  both  ways. 

21.  Procrastination  is  the  thief  of  time. 

22.  He  laughs  best  who  laughs  last. 

23.  Look  before  you  leap. 

24.  A  word  to  the  wise  is  sufficient. 

25.  Honesty  is  the  best  policy. 

•   * 
AMATEUR  PICTURE  EXHIBITION 

Every  person  in  the  community  who  has  a 
camera  or  kodak  is  invited  to  bring  a  collection 
of  photographs  and  to  describe  the  scenes.  In 
this  way  a  most  delightful  hour  may  be  spent. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  61 

COBWEB  SOCIAL 

This  is  a  well-known  social  pastime,  and  is 
always  popular.  A  large  number  of  strings  are 
run  in  every  direction  across  the  room  or  rooms, 
and  wound  around  every  piece  of  furniture  in  the 
rooms.  On  one  end  of  each  string  is  tied  a  sou- 
venir or  card  containing  the  name  of  some  lady 
present.  The  other  ends  of  the  strings  are  in  the 
hall  or  reception  room.  Each  gentleman  chooses 
an  end  and  winds  up  the  string  until  he  reaches 
the  end.  He  then  gets  the  souvenir  or  card  con- 
taining the  name  of  some  lady,  and  he  escorts  this 
lady  to  supper.  Much  merriment  is  caused  in  fol- 
lowing up  the  strings  and  clearing  the  tangles. 
In  unraveling  the  strings  the  guests  meet  fre- 
quently and  spend  a  few  moments  in  delightful 
conversation. 

IMPROVISED  QUARTET 

Take  an  old  book  of  popular  songs  and  tear 
out  one  soifg  for  every  four  persons  present. 
Take  shears  and  cut  each  song  into  four  irregular 
pieces.  Mix  them  all  up  together  and  give  a  piece 
to  each  guest.  The  guests  will  then  compare  their 
fragments  of  song  until  the  fragments  are 
matched.  Then  you  will  have  the  whole  company 
present  formed  into  quartets.  Then  each  quartet 
must  sing  at  least  two  verses  of  the  song  without 
the  aid  of  an  instrument.  The  result  will  be  some 
very  wonderful  ( ?)  music,  and  everybody  will 
enjoy  a  very  hearty  laugh.  A  committee  may  be 
appointed  to  award  a  prize  to  the  best  quartet 
and  a  booby  prize  to  the  poorest  quartet.  Some 


62  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

one  should  be  appointed  who  is  capable  of  making 
funny  speeches  in  presenting  these  prizes. 

AMATEUR  DRAWING  AND  POETRY 

After  all  the  guests  have  arrived,  hand  each  one 
a  sealed  envelope,  numbered  consecutively,  with 
the  instruction  not  to  open  until  requested  to  do 
so.  Each  envelope  contains  a  slip  of  paper  with 
the  name  of  some  animal  upon  it.  A  good  black- 
board and  plenty  of  crayon  are  provided.  At  the 
proper  time  the  person  with  envelope  No.  1  is 
called  to  the  blackboard.  He  open  his  envelope 
and  finds  the  word  "elephant"  within.  He  must 
take  the  crayon  and  draw  an  elephant.  Then  No. 
2  is  called,  etc.  Very  few  persons  can  draw,  and 
the  pictures  are  usually  ridiculous.  Then  every 
person  must  write  some  poetry  concerning  the 
animal  drawn  by  him,  and  read  the  same  to  the 
whole  company.  The  poetry  will  create  about  as 
much  amusement  as  the  drawings.  It  will  add 
interest  to  offer  prizes  for  the  best  drawing  and 
poetry,  and  also  for  the  worst. 

FORTY  MINUTES  WITH  BURNS 

Any  desired  number  of  programs  like  the  fol- 
lowing may  be  arranged.  Be  careful  in  the  selec- 
tion of  persons  for  the  various  parts  and  you  will 
have  a  very  pleasing  program. 

1.  Sketch  of  the  Life  of  Burns. 

2.  Quotations. 

3.  Reading:  "To  a  Mountain  Daisy." 

4.  Solo:  "Green  Grow  the  Rushes." 

5.  Selections  from  his  Epigrams  and  Epitaphs. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  63 

6.  Reading:  "To  a  Mouse." 

7.  Solo:  "John  Anderson,  My  Jo." 

8.  Reading:   "Highland  Mary." 

9.  Song:  "Auld  Lang  Syne"  (to  be  sung  by  all). 

MAKING  A  NEWSPAPER 

The  paper  may  be  called  "The  Ladies'  Aid 
News"  or  some  other  appropriate  name.  Nine 
ladies  should  be  appointed  one  month  in  advance 
to  have  charge  of  the  following  departments:  1. 
Editorials.  2.  News  and  Comments.  3.  Stories. 
4.  Poems.  5.  Funny  Column.  6.  Squibs.  7. 
Original  Songs  and  Music.  8.  Politics.  9.  Adver- 
tisements. 

The  ladies  should  advertise  this  newspaper 
social  very  thoroughly,  and  should  furnish  light 
refreshments.  Then  each  of  the  nine  ladies  should 
read  what  they  have  written.  Every  member  of 
the  society  should  be  mentioned  in  the  papers, 
and  all  the  papers  should  be  largely  local  in  char- 
acter. This  may  be  made  an  entertainment  of 
unusual  interest  and  delight. 

TRADING  SOCIAL 

In  advertising  this  social  every  person  is  urged 
to  bring  some  article  thoroughly  wrapped  in 
order  to  conceal  its  identity.  The  more  amusing 
things  brought  the  better.  Then  the  guests  trade 
packages.  If  anyone  is  dissatisfied  with  his  trade, 
he  wraps  up  his  article  and  trades  again.  This 
unique  plan  greatly  aids  social  intercourse  and 
produces  much  enjoyment.  This  may  be  pre- 
ceded or  followed  by  a  supper  or  lunch. 


64  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

GAMES 

Provide  a  large  assortment  of  simple  and  harm- 
less games — Checkers,  Parlor  Croquet,  Authors, 
Ping-Pong,  Bean-Bag  Contest,  Parlor  Football, 
etc.  These  and  other  games  may  be  borrowed  for 
the  occasion.  Do  not  allow  one  group  to  play  the 
same  game  all  the  evening,  but  keep  the  guests 
changing  games  frequently.  Pass  nuts,  or  candy, 
or  fruit,  while  the  games  are  in  progress. 

A  CRAZY  SOCIAL 

Everything  is  of  a  crazy  order  at  this  social. 
The  ladies  are  dressed  in  crazy  style.  The  more 
colors  they  can  find  the  better.  Pictures  on  the 
walls  are  turned  upside  down.  All  kinds  and  con- 
ditions of  dishes  are  used,  and  some  of  them  should 
be  broken.  Old-fashioned  brown  earthen  plates, 
wooden  plates,  pewterware,  etc.,  should  be  freely 
used.  Put  suga?  in  saltcellars,  salt  in  the  sugar 
bowl,  butter  in  the  cream  pitcher,  potatoes  in  tea 
cups,  meat  in  bowls,  etc.  Place  a  slip  of  paper 
by  each  plate  and  require  each  guest  to  compose 
a  crazy  rhyme.  Have  the  words  of  two  or  more 
well-known  songs  thoroughly  mixed,  and  have  a 
quartet  sing  the  strange  combination  set  to  some 
popular  music.  Set  the  chairs  at  the  table  facing 
the  wrong  way,  serve  dessert  first.  Try  this  social 
and  you  will  have  a  most  enjoyable  time. 

CANDY  PULL 

This  old-fashioned  pastime  is  always  in  order 
and  always  appropriate.  It  is  not  necessary  to 
confine  the  efforts  to  one  method  of  making 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  65 

candy.  Any  good,  modern  cookbook  furnishes 
many  good  candy  recipes.  The  guests  should  take 
turns  in  making  the  candy.  After  making  the 
candy  it  should  be  sold  to  the  guests.  The  follow- 
ing program  would  be  appropriate : 

1.  Paper:  "Short  History  of  Candy-Making." 

2.  Solo:  Original  Composition  Concerning  Candy. 

3.  Humorous  Address:   "Why  I  Like  Candy." 

4.  Paper:  "The  Effect  of  Candy  on  Health." 

5.  Let  each  guest  state  his  favorite  candy,  and  tell 

how  much  of  it  he  can  eat. 

PERSONAL  PREFERENCES 

Furnish  each  guest  with  a  blank  and  a  lead 
pencil.  Then  request  that  every  guest  write  his 
personal  preferences.  Let  him  state  his  favorite 
author,  food,  color,  poem,  study,  historical  char- 
acter, flower,  etc.  These  are  read  and  are  inter- 
spersed with  vocal  and  instrumeMtal  music. 

» 

AUTOGRAPH  SOCIAL 

This  is  especially  appropriate  in  a  school  or  col- 
lege town.  The  people  in  the  church  should  seek 
to  become  acquainted  with  the  new  students  as 
soon  as  possible.  Send  a  printed  invitation  to 
each  student  and  greet  them  cordially  when  they 
arrive.  Give  to  each  guest  a  long  card  or  a  small 
notebook  and  a  pencil.  Then  have  each  guest 
exchange  autographs  with  every  other  guest. 
When  the  autographs  are  exchanged,  the  people 
of  the  church  should  talk  freely  to  students  and 
other  strangers,  and  make  them  feel  at  home. 
The  more  informal  this  occasion  is  made  the  bet- 


66  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

ter.  After  all  the  signatures  are  secured  a  short 
musical  and  literary  program  should  be  rendered 
and  a  dainty  lunch  served. 

RHYMING  CONTEST 

Choose  sides  just  as  you  would  in  the  old- 
fashioned  spelling  match.  The  leader  of  one  line 

begins, 

"A  boy  stood  on  the  burning  deck." 

The  one  in  the  line  opposite  adds, 

"Eating  peanuts  by  the  peck." 

Then  the  second  person  in  the  first  line  adds, 
"That  poor  boy  was  taken  sick." 

Number  four  is  hard  pressed  to  add  a  line,  but 
finally  adds, 

"Please  do  fan  me  very  quick." 

If  anyone  is  unable  to  compose  a  rhyming  line, 
he  must  leave  the  game  and  be  seated.  This  game 
is  not  only  enjoyed  by  the  participants  but  also 
by  the  listeners.  It  is  often  very  amusing  and 
breaks  up  all  formality. 

PENNY  CONUNDRUMS 

Each  guest  is  furnished  with  a  penny,  a  piece 
of  paper,  and  pencil.  The  person  in  charge  will 
then  propound  the  following  conundrums,  the 
answers  to  be  found  on  the  sides  of  the  penny, 
and  written  on  the  papers. 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  67 

Find  on  your  penny  the  following: 

1.  What  sends  a  letter.  (Stamps.)  2.  What  Patrick 
Henry  demanded.  (Liberty.)  3.  A  place  of  worship. 
(Temple.)  4.  Adornment  of  a  victor.  (Garland.)  5. 
A  species  of  plant.  (Arrow-head.)  6.  The  end  of  a 
river.  (Mouth.)  7.  Name  of  a  country.  (America.) 
8.  A  mineral  product.  (Copper.)  9.  Part  of  a  book. 
(Leaves.)  10.  Something  very  light.  (Feathers.)  11. 
What  little  children  like.  (Beads.)  12.  Something 
needing  keys.  (Locks.)  13.  Part  of  a  nail.  (Head.) 
14.  What  a  bald  man  needs.  (Hair.)  15.  A  messenger 
boy.  (One  sent.)  16.  Part  of  a  needle.  (Eye.)  17. 
Common  flowers.  (Tulips.)  18.  What  we  all  have. 
(A  profile.)  19.  A  narrow  piece  of  land.  (Neck.)  20. 
What  a  bad  boy  receives.  (Lashes.)  21.  A  perfume. 
(Scent.)  22.  Part  of  a  hill.  (Brow.)  23.  Youth  and 
old  age.  (18  and  99.)  24.  A  war  weapon.  (Bow.)  25.  A 
portion  of  armor.  (Shield.) 

Many  other  things  may  be  suggested  by  the 
guests.  A  prize  may  be  given  to  the  one  having 
the  largest  number  of  correct  answers.  Follow- 
ing the  game,  a  paper  on  the  mints  of  the  United 
States  and  the  manufacture  of  coins  would  be 
very  appropriate. 

A  NOVEL  HAVING  MANY  AUTHORS 

Divide  the  company  into  groups  of  four.  Let 
one  group  write  the  first  paragraph  of  a  novel. 
They  pass  it  on  to  the  next  group  and  they  work 
out  the  second  paragraph,  and  so  on.  When  the 
story  is  completed,  it  is  read  to  the  entire  com- 
pany. 


CHAPTER  XI 
GENERAL  HINTS 

Respect  the  opinions  of  others  when  you  find  it 
impossible  to  agree  with  them. 

Many  Ladies'  Aids  divide  their  membership 
into  twelve  committees,  having  one  committee 
for  January,  another  for  February,  etc.  Then 
each  of  these  committees  plans  for  something  to 
help  the  church  each  successive  month. 

Make  a  thorough  canvass:  for  new  members  at 
least  once  a  year. 

Many  Ladies'  Aids  regard  every  lady  in  the 
church  as  a  member  of  the  organization.  While 
this  plan  may  work  successfully  in  some  churches, 
it  is  not  the  ideal  method.  Every  lady  should  be 
solicited  to  join  and  should  sign  a  membership 
application  blank.  After  thus  joining  they  will 
take  a  deeper  interest  in  the  society. 

It  is  a  wise  plan  to  hold  the  business  meetings 
frequently  in  the  homes  of  the  members.  This  is 
especially  desirable  if  the  church  does  not  afford 
a  pleasant  and  attractive  room  for  the  meetings. 

If  the  business  meetings  are  held  in  the  church, 
the  ladies  should  make  the  church  parlor  as  home- 
like and  attractive  as  possible.  Money  spent  here 
would  be  one  of  the  very  best  investments  the 
ladies  could  make. 

68 


THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL  69 

Many  Ladies'  Aids  serve  a  light  lunch  at  the 
close  of  the  business  session.  This  usually  results 
in  increasing  the  attendance  and  interest. 

Every  lady  moving  into  the  bounds  of  the 
parish  should  be  visited  and  invited  to  join  the 
Society. 

Experience  has  proven  that  it  is  better  not  to 
charge  any  fixed  amount  as  a  membership  fee. 

Some  Ladies'  Aids  make  a  mistake  in  not  enlist- 
ing the  services  of  the  younger  ladies  in  the 
church.  Give  the  young  ladies  something  to  do 
and  they  will  take  pride  in  doing  it  well. 

Many  Ladies'  Aids  have  a  brief  literary  and 
musical  program  in  connection  with  the  business 
meetings.  This  results  in  increasing  the  attend- 
ance. 

Some  Ladies'  Aids  furnish  a  small,  attractive 
button  for  each  member  to  wear.  These  buttons 
may  be  made  to  order  at  a  very  little  expense,  and 
they  always  increase  interest  in  the  Society  and 
its  work. 

The  ladies  should  ever  remember  that  the 
spiritual  work  of  the  church  is  the  most  import- 
ant, and  in  all  their  plans  they  should  keep  the 
highest  spiritual  welfare  of  the  church  in  view. 

Always  remember  that  money  spent  in  printer's 
ink  is  well  invested.  Many  socials,  suppers,  etc., 
fail  becouse  they  are  not  properly  advertised. 

If  the  ladies  have  any  misgivings  concerning 
the  propriety  of  any  proposed  plan,  it  would  be 
well  to  consult  the  pastor  before  acting  upon  it. 


70  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

One  of  the  following  mottoes  might  be  selected 
as  the  motto  for  the  local  Society:  Coworkers 
With  God,  For  God  and  His  Church,  Saved  to 
Serve,  "Faith  Without  Works  is  Dead,"  They 
Love  Best  Who  Serve  Best,  Not  Receiving  but 
Giving,  Loyalty  to  Our  Master,  "Work,  for  the 
Night  is  Coming";  "Here  am  I,  Lord,  Send  Me"; 
Every  Member  a  Worker. 

The  Golden  Eule  should  be  observed  by  every 
lady  in  all  the  work  of  the  Society. 


CHAPTER  XII 

OFFICIAL  RELATION  OF  THE  LADIES'  AID 
TO  THE  CHURCH 

The  official  relationship  of  the  Ladies'  Aid 
Society  to  the  church  is  designated  in  the  follow- 
ing paragraphs  taken  from  the  Discipline  of  the 
church. 

1.  "For  the  promotion  of  the  social  and  finan- 
cial interests  of  the  churches,  Ladies'  Aid  Soci- 
eties, or  Societies  of  similar  designation  and  pur- 
pose, may  be  organized  in  the  local  charge,  which 
Societies  shall  be  under  the  control  of  the  Quar- 
terly Conference." 

2.  "The  President  of  a  Ladies'  Aid  Society  shall 
be  elected  by  the  Society  and  confirmed  by  the 
Quarterly  Conference.    If  a  member  of  the  Meth- 
odist Episcopal  Church,  she  shall  then  become  a 
member  of  the  Quarterly  Conference  if  approved 
by  it  for  membership  therein.    It  shall  be  her  duty 
to  present  to  the  Fourth  Quarterly  Conference  a 
report  of  her  Society,  together  with  such  other 
information  as  the  Conference  may  require  and 
she  may  be  able  to  give." 

3.  "It  shall   be  the  duty  of  district  superin- 
tendents when  holding  District  or  Quarterly  Con- 
ferences  to    inquire    into   the   condition    of   the 
Ladies'  Aid  Societies,  and  to  ascertain  whether 

71 


72  THE  LADIES'  AID  MANUAL 

they  are  conducting  their  affairs  in  harmony  with 
the  purpose  and  Discipline  of  the  Methodist  Epis- 
copal Church." 

4.  "It  shall  be  the  duty  of  pastors  to  organize 
and  maintain,  if  practicable,  Ladies'  Aid  Soci- 
eties." 


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